‘Xolani Gwala was being unnecessary’ on Lumka Oliphant

702 presenter Xolani Gwala is under fire in some quarters for refusing that department of social development spokesperson, Lumka Oliphant, speak in isiZulu during an interview on Monday morning.

He’s also received support for his decision to cut the interview.

When Gwala asked Oliphant to discuss how the social development department intends to pay grants to beneficiaries next month, she responded in isiZulu. The presenter insisted that she stopped “disrespecting” his show and speak in English. The spokesperson refused, and Gwala cut her call.

This immediately set Twitter alight, with some condemning Gwala and others Oliphant. Some argued that Oliphant was trying to divert the “real” debate of the social development saga, while others said Gwala was being unreasonable because he is himself an “Nguni person” who understands isiZulu and could’ve simply communicated with Oliphant, then translated what she was saying, rather than to let her “escape accountability” so easily.

Here’s what some had to say on Twitter:

1) Xolani Gwala is Zulu, and translated all the time on his previous show Asikhulume

2) He achieved nothing in his tantrum… https://t.co/uxsIxavcGK

— Mbuyiseli 🍉 (@LwaziSomya) March 6, 2017

“This morning an African child was considered disrespectful by another African child for speaking her languge. Shame on you Xolani Gwala!” said Iqabane lodumo‏ @Brian_Matyila.

“Xolani Gwala could have got the answers he wanted from Lumka if he wanted, but he wasn’t interested,” said Thami Mthimkhulu‏ @Mtamerri.

“Xolani Gwala was being unnecessary. Instead of hanging up he could’ve easily translated what Lumka said after the call for his listeners,” Karabo Motsoane‏ @Tswana_Guy3 said.

“Xolani wants Lumka to speak in English and calls a black person who doesnt wanna speak english disrespectful gwala ya hlanya jou coconut,” SpaceMan sa Bra Biza‏ @akanigates said.

“@Radio702 Xolani Gwala is an imperialist stooge, how dare you refuse your guest her right to speak in a NATIVE language? Unacceptable,” siad Amukelani H. Nkuna‏ @amu790126.

However, some were clear in the thinking that Gwala did nothing wrong because 702 is “an English” station.

“Guys, Xolani Gwala did nothing wrong. Stations have certain audiences. 702 English, uKhozi isiZulu etc. Lumka Oliphant mustnt dodge us maan,” said Molete Molebatsi‏ @moletemolebatsi.

But despite everything Xolani Gwala remains the best broadcaster in the country.

— Bongani Steven Dhlamini (@BonganiStevenD) March 6, 2017